Blood Flow Restriction Therapy
Over the last 10 years, Blood Flow Restriction Therapy has become one of the largest topics of conversation in the world of Physical Therapy, recovery and strength training. However, when discussing the treatment method with clients, many people are still left in the dark about what it is, how it works and who can benefit from it. Today’s blog is designed to help inform you of just that! Read on to get a better understanding of the latest modality and how it can help you!
What is Blood Flow Restriction Therapy?
Blood Flow Restriction Therapy (BFR) is the combination of limb compression and low-intensity exercise, to yield similar or greater results when compared to moderate-high intensity exercise. BFR technology uses blood pressure cuffs to determine the total limb occlusion, then computes the appropriate percentage to be used, based on the exercises prescribed by the professional. As a result, very simple exercises become much more difficult and fatiguing, however the secret is what is happening biologically.
How does BFR work?
Once the cuffs are in place and the appropriate limb occlusion has been calculated, there is instantly a decrease in the amount of blood flow that can reach the limb (limb occlusion), causing limb hypoxia, meaning “lack of oxygen”. In addition to this, there is a restriction in the amount of blood flow that can return to the rest of your body, which creates cellular swelling in the limb. As a result, the body will undergo several adaptations in order to continue producing force via exercise. These adaptations include:
activation of myogenic stem cells
increased Growth Hormone
increased Insulin Growth Factor
increased metabolic stress
Due to these biological adaptations and the combination of BFR + low-intensity exercise, one can obtain equivalent results when compared to high-intensity exercise alone. However, it can be done without causing damage to the muscle or muscle system.
Who can benefit from Blood Flow Restriction Therapy?
BFR can be used throughout all phases of rehabilitation! Whether you are in a prehab stage (awaiting a surgical procedure), post-operative (weight bearing, or non-weight bearing), injury rehab, return-to-sport, or sports performance, BFR is appropriate for you! Some benefits of BFR include: reduction of atrophy, increased muscle size, improved cardiovascular conditioning, increased strength & power output.
If you are interested in learning more about Blood Flow Restriction Therapy (BFR), wondering if it is right for you or want to schedule a FREE Discovery Session to get a more personal introduction to this treatment method, click the link below and schedule a FREE appointment!